Community colleges, CIRAS to lead statewide manufacturing technology consortium
BY BUSINESS RECORD STAFF
Thursday, April 29, 2021 2:47 PM
Iowa’s community colleges and Iowa State University’s Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS) today announced a new consortium to support the manufacturing sector in adapting to “Industry 4.0” — the global move toward digitalization and automation.
The new consortium includes key state associations and agencies that have agreed to partner for the best interest of manufacturing businesses, the Iowa Association of Community College Trustees and CIRAS said in a news release.
The partnering organizations will implement a statewide education and awareness campaign, with a goal of meeting the training needs of manufacturers of all sizes throughout Iowa, the organizations said. “In addition to customized training for the existing workforce, the group will develop and enhance certificate, diploma, and degree programs to ensure employers have access to advanced skills training and career pathways now and in the future.” organizers said.